The President’s Series: An Evening with Floyd Abrams

The President’s Series on Intellectual Freedom

Join the President of the Library Board and members of the Board of Trustees for the concluding event in the series of special programs exploring and discussing one of the most pressing topics of our day: intellectual freedom, free expression, and civil liberties in American institutions. 

Known as “the First Amendment Lawyer,” Floyd Abrams has been shaping the landscape of free expression since the 1960s.  His landmark cases, from the Pentagon Papers to Clearview AI, have been critical in defining “free speech” for Americans across the country.  Abrams has argued a record-breaking 13 cases before the Supreme Court and, most recently, was named a PBS American Master.

Mr. Abrams’ remarks will be followed by an engaging and spirited Q&A with our President of the Board of Trustees, Hutch Pegler.

This event and its waitlist are full. 

Guest Speaker

Floyd Abrams is a distinguished attorney and Senior Counsel at Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP, where he specializes in high-profile trial and appellate cases, particularly in the realms of the First Amendment, securities litigation, intellectual property, public policy, and regulatory issues.

Renowned for his extensive experience, Abrams has argued numerous cases before the Supreme Court, covering a wide array of legal issues such as the First Amendment, ERISA, broadcast regulation, copyright law, and the Miranda rule. His notable victories include successfully defending Senator Mitch McConnell in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, affirming the rights of corporations and unions to engage in political discourse. Throughout his illustrious career, Floyd has represented major entities like The McGraw-Hill Companies, Standard & Poor’s, The New York Times, CNN, and others in various litigations and investigations.

Beyond his legal practice, Floyd has received numerous accolades, including the Walter Cronkite Freedom of Information Award and the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism's Lifetime Achievement Award. His contributions to the field of First Amendment law led to the establishment of The Floyd Abrams Institute for Freedom of Expression at Yale Law School in 2011. Widely recognized as a leading First Amendment lawyer, Floyd Abrams continues to leave an indelible mark on the legal landscape.

The President's Series

Welcome to the President's Series—an engaging collection of special events hosted by the Library in collaboration with the President of the Board and members of the Library Board of Trustees. Join us for thought-provoking discussions and explorations of the most pressing topics shaping our world today: intellectual freedom, free expression, and civil liberties in American institutions. Guest speakers, including legal experts and constitutional scholars, will help make sense of current events, landmark historical precedents, and their impact on our lives.

As we bring together brilliant minds and diverse perspectives, this series promises insightful conversations that delve into the heart of contemporary issues. Immerse yourself in a forum where ideas are shared, debated, and expanded upon, fostering a deeper understanding of our rapidly evolving world.